The relationship between mothers' body composition and anthropometric characteristics of baby and breast milk nutrient content: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

The composition and amount of breast milk is affected by factors such as the duration and frequency of breastfeeding, the time between two breastfeeding sessions, the effectiveness of breastfeeding, breastfeeding technique, genetic characteristics of the mother and diet. Breast milk macronutrients are provided by milk synthesized in lactocytes, mother's diet and maternal stores.

RESEARCH AIM

This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the body composition of mothers and the anthropometric characteristics of the baby and the nutritional content of breast milk.

METHOD

The descriptive study was conducted between March and November 2023 in a hospital in a low socioeconomic neighbourhood in Turkey. The study sample consisted of 96 mothers and ibabies. Anthropometric measurements of mothers and babies and the nutrient content of breast milk were evaluated on the first postpartum day, Days 5 and 15. Breast milk macronutrient content was analyzed by Miris milk analyzer and body composition of mothers was analyzed by TANITA BC 730.

RESULTS

From the weight and body composition of the mothers in the study group; a positive correlation was found between body fat, muscle and water ratio, and breast milk carnonhydrate and protein (p < 0.05). There was no correlation between the gestational age of the baby and the content of breast milk (p > 0.05). A positive correlation was found between the weight and height of the babies and the macronutrients of breast milk (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

As the weight of mothers increases, breast milk protein and carbohydrate levels increase. As breast milk macronutrients increase, babies' weight and height increase.